Head coach Eric Chelle is targeting foreign-born players eligible to represent Nigeria as part of efforts to strengthen the Super Eagles squad ahead of upcoming international fixtures.
The Malian tactician has already secured commitments from defenders Felix Agu and Ryan Alebiosu, as well as Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo. He is also reportedly in discussions with five other dual-nationality players.
Recent reports indicate that Rangers centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez has pledged his international future to Nigeria, becoming the latest addition to Chelle’s expanding pool of overseas-based talents.
Speaking in comments shared by the Super Eagles Supporters Club, Chelle explained that while interest from foreign-born players is encouraging, selection will be based strictly on team needs.
“We have a couple of players who were born abroad, who want to play for the team and we are looking at how they will fit in. We can’t bring all of them into the team,” he said.
“We will however pick those that we know can bring competition to the team, improve the team and also fit our game project.”
Fernandez, 24, was born in London to Nigerian parents and has impressed in the Scottish League this season, scoring four goals in 17 appearances and earning Rangers’ Player of the Month award for January. He was reportedly close to a move to Borussia Dortmund during the January transfer window.
The Super Eagles squad that finished third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco already featured several dual-nationality players, including Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Ryan Alebiosu, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
Chelle’s recruitment strategy signals a blend of homegrown experience and foreign-based talent as Nigeria prepares for the March international window.
